Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Eternity ❯ Love is Strange ( Chapter 13 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: rain00205 
Anime/Manga: Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Fantasy / Adventure | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 12.01.2011 | Pages: 3 | Words: 4.1K | Visits: 187 | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Fantasy / Adventure | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 12.01.2011 | Pages: 3 | Words: 4.1K | Visits: 187 | Status: Completed
She was right, Jin was a tough opponent. But he was happy, and funny, and San rather liked the wind apparition. She was happy that he made it out alive. It was really interesting how Yusuke seemed to make demon friends, and she had always said that all males were alike. They fight, they shake hands, they move on. Women were nothing like that, it was always about getting even, constantly. San didn't care much for consistent revenge, she believed in justice, but only where it was due. Still, Yusuke was impressive, using the spirit wave even though she knew for a fact that Genkai had never taught it to him. It was incomplete, but it was definitely effective. Jin was defeated and the leader was left. Kurama was still weak, but he would get better, the death plant neutralized and his wounds not being so serious anymore. Risho was in the ring, waiting for his next opponent. The committee had declared Yusuke was out of the ring for longer than the ten count, and was therefore unable to fight. Risho was cocky, and San was pissed at this whole round. They were blaming Koto, Botan was freaking out, even the crowd was appalled by this. Now what were they going to do? San would fight, but only if one of them died, and that wasn't allowed since everyone was alive.
"Do you feel that?" San asked Kurama. Something familiar, and slightly cold was in the air. It wasn't in the stadium, but it was somewhere near.
"No, I'm still weak from my fight. Is it perhaps your mate?" he answered, hoping it wasn't so.
"No, it's not him, it something gentle, yet cold."
"I'm afraid I do not understand your meaning."
"Don't worry about it, I'm sure I'll figure it out soon enough. Just relax, and drink this, it'll numb most of your discomfort."
"Thank you. I admit, my last move was purely depending on your knowledge of the death plant, and on how to remove it if wasn't able to."
"I figured. You're not as mysterious as your façade," she smiled at him, pouring more energy into removing the seed from him. The branches were still sticking out of his body, but that would take time to get rid of. At least all of his serious injuries were cured enough for her. They turned they're attention back to the ring, noticing Risho knock Touya away. Fucking idiots. There seemed to be no such thing as honor with this guy, or the other guy that nearly killed Kurama. He then moved onto to Koto, and she was scared.
"You know, you seem really anxious to intimidate everyone but me. What do you think that means?" asked Yusuke, not very happy about these pests.
"Detective, don't waste your time trying to change their minds," began Hiei. His strength had returned, even the apparitions arm was doing better with the healing power in the force field. San would still have to do some work on it, "Play by their rules and you'll be dragged down with them. There's only one real law of the Dark Tournament, the strongest man prevails! I've retrieved enough energy to rip my way out. Let's show this whole stadium an new definition for victory!"
"They're going to kill us all anyway, so why don't we take on every damn freak till no ones left? That sounds good to me, I'm already about to go off," said Yusuke. San couldn't agree more. Hiei's power was bursting, it was breaking thru the force field. Koto was announcing the loss for the team, but Kuwabara was on his feet.
"We still got one more fighter on our team," he declared. He took of his shirt, getting ready.
"You're kidding me!" said Yusuke.
"The boy can't even walk without doubling over! As the team trainer I must say this is a ridiculous idea!" screamed Botan.
"Interesting..." trailed Kurama.
"Stupid is more like it," said San. Kuwabara was wincing as he walked into the ring. Botan ran off to wherever, but San was more focused on the current events. She may actually have to fight with Kuwabara volountarily killing himself like this, but then at least, everyone else would be safe. She was sure of Risho and his powers, but how in the hell would Kuwabara think he stood a chance in his present state?
"I can handle this you guys! Remember the lady from the medical tent said that Hiei and the masked fighter were no good, and that I was okay!" said Kuwabara.
"Stupid, cause she's not a nurse!" retorted Yusuke.
"Don't confuse the issue, the point is I'm still eligible to fight and Im the only one."
"Yes, but eligible and able are two different words," San barely heard Hiei's comment.
"You shut up shrimp!" yelled Kuwabara, attempting to walk over there but holding his stomach and dropping to his knees. San sighed, she was going to have to mend bones, and she really hated that. He wasn't even in the ring yet.
"See, you're in no shape!" said Yusuke, running to stand in front of him, proving a point.
"I'm going Urameshi, unless you want to kill me yourself," declared Kuwabara. They had a stare down. Men, "I know these guys are cheating us, I know you're angry, and heck I know what happens if we lose. But if you and Hiei go on some tirade, destroying people until you get your way, you'll be just like them. Let's win this thing clean-"
"Like men."
"How touching," said Hiei, his voice dripping with sarcasm. San couldn't help but chuckle.
"Bit my ankles shorty! I'll make you cry to your mom! That is if you have a mom..."
"And to think, they could one day be in-laws," said Kurama. His voice wasn't weak anymore, and San was happy about that. She laughed at his comment though, and then realized what she was feeling was Yukina. That must have been where Botan went, to get her to come in. This also meant that she could help with the healing. She heard Hiei speak to Botan, obviously warning her about the truth with Yukina. They both returned their attention to the next match.
"It's not wise, but at least it'll give us time to consider our options, provided he lives and then San will fight," said Kurama.
"He's killing himself," said Yusuke, who had an interesting connection with this boy. Risho was ready, Kuwabara preparing himself as well. San didn't like this one bit, but what choice did they really have?
"Think Yusuke, there must be some way we can prevent this disaster," said Kurama.
"I don't know," he replied.
"There is no way, not with the committee against us," said San. She hugged Kurama without knowing she did so, fearing for Kuwabara. Despite the events, Kurama couldn't help but notice this. She was incredibly warm, and he could feel her heart hammering in her chest.
"Maybe we can beat up that stupid committee or something."
"Fat chance."
Kuwabara began to run, summoning his spirit sword, but it vanished. His energy was too low, now he was really doomed. Risho jumped, laughing at this misfortune. He appeared behind Kuwabara and thundered a kick to the back. He continued to beat up Kuwabara, San cringing at some of the hard ones. He was still on his feet, but now he was bleeding.
"Quit letting that creep wail on you, show some fucking balls!" yelled Yusuke.
"We both know he's proven enough. It's a miracle he's even standing," said Kurama. San wasn't happy, impressed but not happy. Kuwabara was finally down, and Koto was taking a 10 count. He was back up, but he was weak. Risho continued his attacks, but them something completely unexpected happened. Risho was about to show them the awesome power of the earth. The ground was shaking, as he summoned the ground around him, his earth armor. It was made of clay, a strong substance. San was impressed.
"What an amazing thing," she stated.
"You know, that can get really annoying very quickly," said Yusuke, but Kuwabara was struck just then, a massive blow. She could feel Kurama tense, and he felt her cringe, squeezing him. Kuwabara took another blow, but was rising to his feet once more. The idiot planned on using his life energy to defeat Risho, just like Yusuke had done against Suzaku. Idiot.
"Hiei, your a little punk, and you always said mean stuff to me. But I know underneath all that junk, you're a good guy. Kurama, you taught me a lot with the things you said. There's no one more caring than you. San, you've been a great help, and I know that replacing me will ensure our victory with this fight, and against Toguro. Lonely figheter, person, you saved those guys from the doctor, and that means a lot. You didn't say much, but somehow I feel that I already know you. Urameshi, well... just take care of the rest of this okay," said Kuwabara, farewelling everyone. San let a tear fall as she heard gasps echoing from the team. Was this a variable? It must be, because Kuwabara was not the one to die. Yusuke was yelling, but she couldn't hear.
And then something amazing happened. It was very curious indeed that Kuwabara could barely support himself, but once Yukina made an appearance, he was all better. Motivation of the best kind came from here, he really did love her. He pushed Risho away, striking him with a devastating blow. He was left outside of the ring and then ran towards Yukina, showing off.
"I am never going to understand that bastard," said Yusuke. San felt the same, laughing at Kuwabara's actions. Risho began to run at Kuwabara again, putting more armor on. Kuwabara was able to summon his spirit sword, and then Risho's armor was destroyed. Koto was at five by the time Kuwabara noticed anything. He climbed into the ring, and their team won the match. He fell down, resting as he should be. San was relieved, and then realized she was practically choking Kurama. She released him.
"I'm sorry," she said.
"It's alright. I think perhaps now it is time to get some rest," he replied, trying to ignore the feelings inside. She helped him up, and they walked back to the hotel room. She set him down on his bed. The next battle would be the semi-finals. She wasn't looking forward to that, but her mate hadn't made an appearance. She administered one more round of her energy, practically draining every ounce she had, and then the branches from the plant were gone. He coughed out the seed, and she caught it in her hand. She placed it in with her other inventory, not having any of these. She would breed them in her garden, back at Genkai's temple. He seemed to be sleeping, so she got up from her seat beside him on the bed. He grabbed her wrist and she gasped, "Thank you San. For everything," he told her, looking into her tawny eyes. It was painful to know that once again there was nothing he could do about his feelings towards her, but was happy she cared about him.
"It's nothing," she replied, trapped in his green orbs. Why did he affect her so?
"It is not. You have used all of your energy today to make sure I would survive. I don't know anyone that would do that, aside from my mate."
"I don't like losing people, I lost the love of my life, and the pain was unbearable. I still feel it, right here," she said, taking his hand and placing it where her heart was. He knew what she meant, feeling Youko inside of him. He was surprised the demon hadn't mentioned anything about this, but knew he would probably get an earful later. She moved his hand, and was getting ready to depart.
"Wait," Kurama said without thinking. He didn't want her to leave just yet. She turned around, curiously, "Would it be too much trouble to ask for your assistance cleaning these wounds?" She stood there for a minute, thinking it looked like.
"No, it's fine, I don't know why I didn't think of it in the first place," she answered.
...
Kurama was waiting at the next battle. He watched the teams fight, knowing that his team would be fighting with the victor in the semi finals. Hiei and San were with him, and they watched the quickest match yet. It was over in under two minutes, but that didn't seem surprising. You had to be tough to make it this far, and the three demons knew that. They were well informed of these tournaments, and that's what gave them advantages. They knew what to expect, unlike Yusuke and Kuwabara.
"What an arrogant fool," stated Hiei.
"Well, well, well, look who it is. Guess you guys have the same idea we did about scoping out the competition for the semi finals," said Kuwabara, walking up to the demons with Botan, Genkai, Yusuke and some random thing that looked as if it was attached to Yusuke's head.
"Had the same idea. The fight is over," said Kurama.
"What?"
"That's what you get for sleeping in you bum," San threw in there.
"That's unbelievable. I mean I can't believe we missed the entire match just because I took a couple of extra minutes to brush my teeth."
"It was an impressive sight to behold," said Kurama.
"Though I'm sure your minty fresh breath was well worth the delay," said Hiei, "What is that ridiculous appendage growing out of your head all about?" he asked Yusuke.
"It's just a puberty thing okay! So Kurama, how are you wounds treating you? asked Yusuke.
"It will be fine, I'll be fighting again tomorrow. You can thank San for that," he answered.
"Hn. Seems it's not as bad as you had us think," said Hiei.
"Compared with your energy loss, no it seems it's not," said Kurama, rolling his eyes. San laughed, enjoying that he actually had more of a sense of humour than he lead on.
"Hey! I got an idea you guys! Ask Yukina to use her healing powers. She's amazing, as soon as she touches you, you'll feel better than you ever have before, and she's pretty too. She's actually here to look for her long lost estranged brother. I'm going to help her look for him just as soon as we win this tournament," said Kuwabara, very fast and very excitedly.
"Yukina's brother? Yes, sounds like a noble cause, we should assist her to, Hiei."
"Yeah, you can even lend an eye!" said Yusuke. San couldn't control her laughter. It seemed more funny to pick on Hiei than anyone, and she didn't know why.
Hiei growled, "Will you shut up!" Kurama laughed quietly along with Yusuke.
"Hey... what's going on here? Am I missing something? What aren't you guys telling me, what are you guys laughing about anyway?" asked Kuwabara. That made Yusuke, Kurama and San laugh more, Hiei looking ready to kill.
"Just what Hiei said about this ridiculous thing on my head right?" answered Yusuke.
"I heard him say that, it wasn't that funny," declared Kuwabara, but the laughter didn't stop. Yusuke looked at Genkai, as did San and it seemed all the fun had stopped.
"Hello. What's your problem?" he questioned her. She just stared, passing her judgement on him. Then, Toguro's team appeared on the entrance across from them. Those eyes, the eyes of Karasu, they were staring directly at her, at San. Instinctively she grabbed Kurama, basically hiding behind him. He protectively stood in front of her, not quite understanding what it was about them that got her so upset. They left shortly after, but San was still shaking. She was really hoping Youko would appear soon, she didn't even stand a chance at defending herself against Karasu and she knew that he would come for her. Just as soon as everyone was out of the way.
"At least your act is tough," said Genkai.
"Hey, I work hard at it!"
"No, this can't be. How could I have missed it for so long? They must have shielded their energy from detection. I feel so... Light headed..." said Kuwabara, kneeling down, "We can't compete with these guys Urameshi. What are we going to do?" The next battle was beginning. The team retreated into the locker room to think things thru and continue the conversation.
"I'm just saying it's not that big of a deal Kuwabara, and us bitching about it isn't going to help," began Yusuke, "You probably feel their powers now because your senses got better. Come on, Toguro's the one who invited us to this stupid tournament, none of thought it was going to be a joy ride but we can beat him okay?"
"Tsk, tsk, tsk, don't you think you're forgetting about somebody?" said the opposing team, the one that was to fight them next. They had opened the door, clearly wanting to make an impression for themselves.
"No one of real importance," said Kurama, glaring at them. San was beside him, still shaken up from seeing Karasu, and feeling the stare he gave her. She didn't cling to him, it wasn't right, especially with Youko about, but she wanted to. She needed her mate right now.
"Who's that?" asked Kuwabara.
"My guess would be the freak show rejects," answered Yusuke.
"My name is Kuro Momotaro," said the weird blond one.
"Makintaro," said the biggest of them. He was incredibly ugly too, well, they all were, or so San noted.
"Ura Urashima," said the short one with the fishing rod.
"Shishiwakamaru," said the one with the bug looking hair.
"And you can just call me Onji," said the old man, and obviously the leader of this retarded looking team.
"If you guys are looking for us to go easy on you, you're wasting your and most importantly, our time," said Yusuke, taunting them. Kuro spit gum it looked like.
"Nah, it's the exact opposite, we want a good fight," said Kuro.
"We will be famous, but we're going to need more than two minutes of exposure to get that way," added Shishiwakamaru. What a stupid name. They started to leave after that comment.
"Arrogant little prick don't you think?" said Yusuke.
"You can say that again," said Kuwabara.
"If you want to be famous why don't you start a boy-band? You got the look down."
Shishiwakamaru turned around after that last remark. He grew horns, attempting to look more bad ass San was assuming. He looked pretty stupid in her opinion, but that's because her mate was the best thing she had ever laid eyes on. He wasn't deformed or small, she was happy that out of the bunch she could've had, he wasn't like any of the other apparitions, "We'll get ugly soon enough Urameshi, just you wait!" he declared, before the whole team walked away.
"Those guys aren't even worth two minutes. Their powers are like nothing compared to Toguro," said Kuwabara.
"We could always wear blind folds. At least that way it'd be more amusing," said Yusuke.
"Pride is for the weak Yusuke," said Genkai. San stared at her. It seemed today that she was up to something, that some major event was going to take place. Could it be?
"Leave me alone!" yelled Yusuke. Genkai continued to stare, and San was sure of what was about to happen, "Stop looking at me like that you masked freak!" and he punched a whole in the wall, purely for dramatics San was assuming. Botan dropped the drinks that she went to get, startled at Yusuke's anger, "If you've got something to say, say it!"
"It's quite simple really. If the leader of Team Toguro is... Toguro, then the leader of Team Urameshi should be Yusuke Urameshi. The question I'm posing is, do you have what it takes to beat Toguro all by yourself, Yusuke Urameshi?" what was she up to? San was worried.
"Guys, break it up! Let's try and get along," said Kuwabara.
"Kuwabara's right, can we please talk this thru peacefully," Botan butted in. San was watching Genkai intently, trying to figure out what was going on. Was it time for her vision to come into play? She didn't want that, she wanted a way to alter that one, but she knew that she couldn't, she didn't know when that would happen.
"You think you should lead this team instead of me?" said Yusuke, ignoring the two of them.
"If necessary. Follow me," said Genkai, walking out the door.
"Yeah, let's take this outside," said Yusuke, following her. Now San knew what was going on, and it was about damn time too.
"Yusuke don't be stupid!" Botan called after him.
"Let them be," said Hiei, drawing attention back into the room, "They will have to settle this themselves."
"Yeah, that's what we're afraid might happen. Those two are so strong and so mad they'll probably settle this to the death and that's no good," mused Kuwabara.
"It's a shame, but there's nothing we can do."
"And even if there were anything that could be done, it's hardly our place to interfere with their affairs," said Kurama.
"How can you possibly say those things? Can't you see it could tear this team apart?" said Botan, the thing in her arms freaking out. What was it anyway? "And none of you seem to be bothered enough to care!" she screamed, running out the door.
"You're all wrong you know," said San. They looked at her curiously, waiting for her to elaborate, "their not going to physically fight each other. Yusuke is simply going to complete his training. Just in time for Toguro, he's the match we've really got to worry about. Particularly me."
"Why you?" asked Kuwabara.
"It's a long story, and I'm not getting into it, so don't bother asking. Let's just say I won't die, but my fate will be worse than death."
"San..." Kurama trailed, wondering what she was talking about. Maybe that was why she got so nervous around his team, someone must be after her, or her powers, or something of the like. He wished she would tell him so that he could help.
"Well whatever happens San, Toguro's going to have to go thru me and I'm sure all of us to get to you. By then he should be weak enough that you have a chance of getting away," declared Kuwabara.
She smiled at him, appreciating the gesture, "Thanks," she knew that they would defend her to the death. She didn't know if she could allow that, but what choice did she have? The semi finals would begin tomorrow, everything felt tense. Maybe that was because of the tournament being over, and still no sign of Youko. She needed him, knowing that Karasu was lurking in the shadows, waiting for his moment to strike. She knew that the combined power of her and Youko would have a chance of defeating him, but in order for that to happen, she needed to find him, and soon.
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"Do you feel that?" San asked Kurama. Something familiar, and slightly cold was in the air. It wasn't in the stadium, but it was somewhere near.
"No, I'm still weak from my fight. Is it perhaps your mate?" he answered, hoping it wasn't so.
"No, it's not him, it something gentle, yet cold."
"I'm afraid I do not understand your meaning."
"Don't worry about it, I'm sure I'll figure it out soon enough. Just relax, and drink this, it'll numb most of your discomfort."
"Thank you. I admit, my last move was purely depending on your knowledge of the death plant, and on how to remove it if wasn't able to."
"I figured. You're not as mysterious as your façade," she smiled at him, pouring more energy into removing the seed from him. The branches were still sticking out of his body, but that would take time to get rid of. At least all of his serious injuries were cured enough for her. They turned they're attention back to the ring, noticing Risho knock Touya away. Fucking idiots. There seemed to be no such thing as honor with this guy, or the other guy that nearly killed Kurama. He then moved onto to Koto, and she was scared.
"You know, you seem really anxious to intimidate everyone but me. What do you think that means?" asked Yusuke, not very happy about these pests.
"Detective, don't waste your time trying to change their minds," began Hiei. His strength had returned, even the apparitions arm was doing better with the healing power in the force field. San would still have to do some work on it, "Play by their rules and you'll be dragged down with them. There's only one real law of the Dark Tournament, the strongest man prevails! I've retrieved enough energy to rip my way out. Let's show this whole stadium an new definition for victory!"
"They're going to kill us all anyway, so why don't we take on every damn freak till no ones left? That sounds good to me, I'm already about to go off," said Yusuke. San couldn't agree more. Hiei's power was bursting, it was breaking thru the force field. Koto was announcing the loss for the team, but Kuwabara was on his feet.
"We still got one more fighter on our team," he declared. He took of his shirt, getting ready.
"You're kidding me!" said Yusuke.
"The boy can't even walk without doubling over! As the team trainer I must say this is a ridiculous idea!" screamed Botan.
"Interesting..." trailed Kurama.
"Stupid is more like it," said San. Kuwabara was wincing as he walked into the ring. Botan ran off to wherever, but San was more focused on the current events. She may actually have to fight with Kuwabara volountarily killing himself like this, but then at least, everyone else would be safe. She was sure of Risho and his powers, but how in the hell would Kuwabara think he stood a chance in his present state?
"I can handle this you guys! Remember the lady from the medical tent said that Hiei and the masked fighter were no good, and that I was okay!" said Kuwabara.
"Stupid, cause she's not a nurse!" retorted Yusuke.
"Don't confuse the issue, the point is I'm still eligible to fight and Im the only one."
"Yes, but eligible and able are two different words," San barely heard Hiei's comment.
"You shut up shrimp!" yelled Kuwabara, attempting to walk over there but holding his stomach and dropping to his knees. San sighed, she was going to have to mend bones, and she really hated that. He wasn't even in the ring yet.
"See, you're in no shape!" said Yusuke, running to stand in front of him, proving a point.
"I'm going Urameshi, unless you want to kill me yourself," declared Kuwabara. They had a stare down. Men, "I know these guys are cheating us, I know you're angry, and heck I know what happens if we lose. But if you and Hiei go on some tirade, destroying people until you get your way, you'll be just like them. Let's win this thing clean-"
"Like men."
"How touching," said Hiei, his voice dripping with sarcasm. San couldn't help but chuckle.
"Bit my ankles shorty! I'll make you cry to your mom! That is if you have a mom..."
"And to think, they could one day be in-laws," said Kurama. His voice wasn't weak anymore, and San was happy about that. She laughed at his comment though, and then realized what she was feeling was Yukina. That must have been where Botan went, to get her to come in. This also meant that she could help with the healing. She heard Hiei speak to Botan, obviously warning her about the truth with Yukina. They both returned their attention to the next match.
"It's not wise, but at least it'll give us time to consider our options, provided he lives and then San will fight," said Kurama.
"He's killing himself," said Yusuke, who had an interesting connection with this boy. Risho was ready, Kuwabara preparing himself as well. San didn't like this one bit, but what choice did they really have?
"Think Yusuke, there must be some way we can prevent this disaster," said Kurama.
"I don't know," he replied.
"There is no way, not with the committee against us," said San. She hugged Kurama without knowing she did so, fearing for Kuwabara. Despite the events, Kurama couldn't help but notice this. She was incredibly warm, and he could feel her heart hammering in her chest.
"Maybe we can beat up that stupid committee or something."
"Fat chance."
Kuwabara began to run, summoning his spirit sword, but it vanished. His energy was too low, now he was really doomed. Risho jumped, laughing at this misfortune. He appeared behind Kuwabara and thundered a kick to the back. He continued to beat up Kuwabara, San cringing at some of the hard ones. He was still on his feet, but now he was bleeding.
"Quit letting that creep wail on you, show some fucking balls!" yelled Yusuke.
"We both know he's proven enough. It's a miracle he's even standing," said Kurama. San wasn't happy, impressed but not happy. Kuwabara was finally down, and Koto was taking a 10 count. He was back up, but he was weak. Risho continued his attacks, but them something completely unexpected happened. Risho was about to show them the awesome power of the earth. The ground was shaking, as he summoned the ground around him, his earth armor. It was made of clay, a strong substance. San was impressed.
"What an amazing thing," she stated.
"You know, that can get really annoying very quickly," said Yusuke, but Kuwabara was struck just then, a massive blow. She could feel Kurama tense, and he felt her cringe, squeezing him. Kuwabara took another blow, but was rising to his feet once more. The idiot planned on using his life energy to defeat Risho, just like Yusuke had done against Suzaku. Idiot.
"Hiei, your a little punk, and you always said mean stuff to me. But I know underneath all that junk, you're a good guy. Kurama, you taught me a lot with the things you said. There's no one more caring than you. San, you've been a great help, and I know that replacing me will ensure our victory with this fight, and against Toguro. Lonely figheter, person, you saved those guys from the doctor, and that means a lot. You didn't say much, but somehow I feel that I already know you. Urameshi, well... just take care of the rest of this okay," said Kuwabara, farewelling everyone. San let a tear fall as she heard gasps echoing from the team. Was this a variable? It must be, because Kuwabara was not the one to die. Yusuke was yelling, but she couldn't hear.
And then something amazing happened. It was very curious indeed that Kuwabara could barely support himself, but once Yukina made an appearance, he was all better. Motivation of the best kind came from here, he really did love her. He pushed Risho away, striking him with a devastating blow. He was left outside of the ring and then ran towards Yukina, showing off.
"I am never going to understand that bastard," said Yusuke. San felt the same, laughing at Kuwabara's actions. Risho began to run at Kuwabara again, putting more armor on. Kuwabara was able to summon his spirit sword, and then Risho's armor was destroyed. Koto was at five by the time Kuwabara noticed anything. He climbed into the ring, and their team won the match. He fell down, resting as he should be. San was relieved, and then realized she was practically choking Kurama. She released him.
"I'm sorry," she said.
"It's alright. I think perhaps now it is time to get some rest," he replied, trying to ignore the feelings inside. She helped him up, and they walked back to the hotel room. She set him down on his bed. The next battle would be the semi-finals. She wasn't looking forward to that, but her mate hadn't made an appearance. She administered one more round of her energy, practically draining every ounce she had, and then the branches from the plant were gone. He coughed out the seed, and she caught it in her hand. She placed it in with her other inventory, not having any of these. She would breed them in her garden, back at Genkai's temple. He seemed to be sleeping, so she got up from her seat beside him on the bed. He grabbed her wrist and she gasped, "Thank you San. For everything," he told her, looking into her tawny eyes. It was painful to know that once again there was nothing he could do about his feelings towards her, but was happy she cared about him.
"It's nothing," she replied, trapped in his green orbs. Why did he affect her so?
"It is not. You have used all of your energy today to make sure I would survive. I don't know anyone that would do that, aside from my mate."
"I don't like losing people, I lost the love of my life, and the pain was unbearable. I still feel it, right here," she said, taking his hand and placing it where her heart was. He knew what she meant, feeling Youko inside of him. He was surprised the demon hadn't mentioned anything about this, but knew he would probably get an earful later. She moved his hand, and was getting ready to depart.
"Wait," Kurama said without thinking. He didn't want her to leave just yet. She turned around, curiously, "Would it be too much trouble to ask for your assistance cleaning these wounds?" She stood there for a minute, thinking it looked like.
"No, it's fine, I don't know why I didn't think of it in the first place," she answered.
...
Kurama was waiting at the next battle. He watched the teams fight, knowing that his team would be fighting with the victor in the semi finals. Hiei and San were with him, and they watched the quickest match yet. It was over in under two minutes, but that didn't seem surprising. You had to be tough to make it this far, and the three demons knew that. They were well informed of these tournaments, and that's what gave them advantages. They knew what to expect, unlike Yusuke and Kuwabara.
"What an arrogant fool," stated Hiei.
"Well, well, well, look who it is. Guess you guys have the same idea we did about scoping out the competition for the semi finals," said Kuwabara, walking up to the demons with Botan, Genkai, Yusuke and some random thing that looked as if it was attached to Yusuke's head.
"Had the same idea. The fight is over," said Kurama.
"What?"
"That's what you get for sleeping in you bum," San threw in there.
"That's unbelievable. I mean I can't believe we missed the entire match just because I took a couple of extra minutes to brush my teeth."
"It was an impressive sight to behold," said Kurama.
"Though I'm sure your minty fresh breath was well worth the delay," said Hiei, "What is that ridiculous appendage growing out of your head all about?" he asked Yusuke.
"It's just a puberty thing okay! So Kurama, how are you wounds treating you? asked Yusuke.
"It will be fine, I'll be fighting again tomorrow. You can thank San for that," he answered.
"Hn. Seems it's not as bad as you had us think," said Hiei.
"Compared with your energy loss, no it seems it's not," said Kurama, rolling his eyes. San laughed, enjoying that he actually had more of a sense of humour than he lead on.
"Hey! I got an idea you guys! Ask Yukina to use her healing powers. She's amazing, as soon as she touches you, you'll feel better than you ever have before, and she's pretty too. She's actually here to look for her long lost estranged brother. I'm going to help her look for him just as soon as we win this tournament," said Kuwabara, very fast and very excitedly.
"Yukina's brother? Yes, sounds like a noble cause, we should assist her to, Hiei."
"Yeah, you can even lend an eye!" said Yusuke. San couldn't control her laughter. It seemed more funny to pick on Hiei than anyone, and she didn't know why.
Hiei growled, "Will you shut up!" Kurama laughed quietly along with Yusuke.
"Hey... what's going on here? Am I missing something? What aren't you guys telling me, what are you guys laughing about anyway?" asked Kuwabara. That made Yusuke, Kurama and San laugh more, Hiei looking ready to kill.
"Just what Hiei said about this ridiculous thing on my head right?" answered Yusuke.
"I heard him say that, it wasn't that funny," declared Kuwabara, but the laughter didn't stop. Yusuke looked at Genkai, as did San and it seemed all the fun had stopped.
"Hello. What's your problem?" he questioned her. She just stared, passing her judgement on him. Then, Toguro's team appeared on the entrance across from them. Those eyes, the eyes of Karasu, they were staring directly at her, at San. Instinctively she grabbed Kurama, basically hiding behind him. He protectively stood in front of her, not quite understanding what it was about them that got her so upset. They left shortly after, but San was still shaking. She was really hoping Youko would appear soon, she didn't even stand a chance at defending herself against Karasu and she knew that he would come for her. Just as soon as everyone was out of the way.
"At least your act is tough," said Genkai.
"Hey, I work hard at it!"
"No, this can't be. How could I have missed it for so long? They must have shielded their energy from detection. I feel so... Light headed..." said Kuwabara, kneeling down, "We can't compete with these guys Urameshi. What are we going to do?" The next battle was beginning. The team retreated into the locker room to think things thru and continue the conversation.
"I'm just saying it's not that big of a deal Kuwabara, and us bitching about it isn't going to help," began Yusuke, "You probably feel their powers now because your senses got better. Come on, Toguro's the one who invited us to this stupid tournament, none of thought it was going to be a joy ride but we can beat him okay?"
"Tsk, tsk, tsk, don't you think you're forgetting about somebody?" said the opposing team, the one that was to fight them next. They had opened the door, clearly wanting to make an impression for themselves.
"No one of real importance," said Kurama, glaring at them. San was beside him, still shaken up from seeing Karasu, and feeling the stare he gave her. She didn't cling to him, it wasn't right, especially with Youko about, but she wanted to. She needed her mate right now.
"Who's that?" asked Kuwabara.
"My guess would be the freak show rejects," answered Yusuke.
"My name is Kuro Momotaro," said the weird blond one.
"Makintaro," said the biggest of them. He was incredibly ugly too, well, they all were, or so San noted.
"Ura Urashima," said the short one with the fishing rod.
"Shishiwakamaru," said the one with the bug looking hair.
"And you can just call me Onji," said the old man, and obviously the leader of this retarded looking team.
"If you guys are looking for us to go easy on you, you're wasting your and most importantly, our time," said Yusuke, taunting them. Kuro spit gum it looked like.
"Nah, it's the exact opposite, we want a good fight," said Kuro.
"We will be famous, but we're going to need more than two minutes of exposure to get that way," added Shishiwakamaru. What a stupid name. They started to leave after that comment.
"Arrogant little prick don't you think?" said Yusuke.
"You can say that again," said Kuwabara.
"If you want to be famous why don't you start a boy-band? You got the look down."
Shishiwakamaru turned around after that last remark. He grew horns, attempting to look more bad ass San was assuming. He looked pretty stupid in her opinion, but that's because her mate was the best thing she had ever laid eyes on. He wasn't deformed or small, she was happy that out of the bunch she could've had, he wasn't like any of the other apparitions, "We'll get ugly soon enough Urameshi, just you wait!" he declared, before the whole team walked away.
"Those guys aren't even worth two minutes. Their powers are like nothing compared to Toguro," said Kuwabara.
"We could always wear blind folds. At least that way it'd be more amusing," said Yusuke.
"Pride is for the weak Yusuke," said Genkai. San stared at her. It seemed today that she was up to something, that some major event was going to take place. Could it be?
"Leave me alone!" yelled Yusuke. Genkai continued to stare, and San was sure of what was about to happen, "Stop looking at me like that you masked freak!" and he punched a whole in the wall, purely for dramatics San was assuming. Botan dropped the drinks that she went to get, startled at Yusuke's anger, "If you've got something to say, say it!"
"It's quite simple really. If the leader of Team Toguro is... Toguro, then the leader of Team Urameshi should be Yusuke Urameshi. The question I'm posing is, do you have what it takes to beat Toguro all by yourself, Yusuke Urameshi?" what was she up to? San was worried.
"Guys, break it up! Let's try and get along," said Kuwabara.
"Kuwabara's right, can we please talk this thru peacefully," Botan butted in. San was watching Genkai intently, trying to figure out what was going on. Was it time for her vision to come into play? She didn't want that, she wanted a way to alter that one, but she knew that she couldn't, she didn't know when that would happen.
"You think you should lead this team instead of me?" said Yusuke, ignoring the two of them.
"If necessary. Follow me," said Genkai, walking out the door.
"Yeah, let's take this outside," said Yusuke, following her. Now San knew what was going on, and it was about damn time too.
"Yusuke don't be stupid!" Botan called after him.
"Let them be," said Hiei, drawing attention back into the room, "They will have to settle this themselves."
"Yeah, that's what we're afraid might happen. Those two are so strong and so mad they'll probably settle this to the death and that's no good," mused Kuwabara.
"It's a shame, but there's nothing we can do."
"And even if there were anything that could be done, it's hardly our place to interfere with their affairs," said Kurama.
"How can you possibly say those things? Can't you see it could tear this team apart?" said Botan, the thing in her arms freaking out. What was it anyway? "And none of you seem to be bothered enough to care!" she screamed, running out the door.
"You're all wrong you know," said San. They looked at her curiously, waiting for her to elaborate, "their not going to physically fight each other. Yusuke is simply going to complete his training. Just in time for Toguro, he's the match we've really got to worry about. Particularly me."
"Why you?" asked Kuwabara.
"It's a long story, and I'm not getting into it, so don't bother asking. Let's just say I won't die, but my fate will be worse than death."
"San..." Kurama trailed, wondering what she was talking about. Maybe that was why she got so nervous around his team, someone must be after her, or her powers, or something of the like. He wished she would tell him so that he could help.
"Well whatever happens San, Toguro's going to have to go thru me and I'm sure all of us to get to you. By then he should be weak enough that you have a chance of getting away," declared Kuwabara.
She smiled at him, appreciating the gesture, "Thanks," she knew that they would defend her to the death. She didn't know if she could allow that, but what choice did she have? The semi finals would begin tomorrow, everything felt tense. Maybe that was because of the tournament being over, and still no sign of Youko. She needed him, knowing that Karasu was lurking in the shadows, waiting for his moment to strike. She knew that the combined power of her and Youko would have a chance of defeating him, but in order for that to happen, she needed to find him, and soon.
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